X-ADV

Introduction

It’s not often in the world of motorcycling that a fresh line of thinking emerges to create a new breed of machine. But Honda specializes in innovation and in 2016 unveiled a completely new concept, straight out of left field - the X-ADV.

The thought processes that led to its birth? Consider the attributes of the average adventure-style motorcycle – tough go-anywhere appeal, an upright riding position giving superb visibility and remarkable all-round usefulness, work or play. Then take a look at the typical commuter; it might be a scooter or motorcycle, but in either case it will be easy to manage, nimble and loaded with convenience, efficiency and useful storage space. Honda’s forward-thinking engineers combined the two together, and something special happened.

The machine they created had a rugged, stylish SUV image fully at home navigating the urban sprawl. And while it was loaded with all of the premium features that enable easy life in the big city, it also had the looks, engine power and chassis ability to inject every ride with the promise of adventure.

The X-ADV captured the essence of two-wheeled freedom in an exciting new form and garnered the attention of an army of riders around Europe, eager for something new, and has proved itself a genuine sales success. And, proving its off-road credentials, in the hands of seasoned Italian racer Renato Zocchi a lightly modified version took overall Class 2 victory in the gruelling 7,000km 2019 Gibraltar Rally.

And the X-ADV is not standing still. For 2021 Honda is upping its engine performance, trimming weight, enhancing style and adding even more usefulness. Making the X-ADV even cooler and more desirable in the process.

Model Overview

3kW more peak power for the X-ADV’s EURO5-spec engine, plus an extra 600rpm to the redline are the headline changes, thanks to work on valve timing and intake/exhaust efficiency. Shorter ratios for first, second and third gears allow smarter acceleration, while taller fourth, fifth and sixth ratios allow relaxed higher speed cruising and excellent fuel economy.

Throttle By Wire (TBW) brings with it adjustable engine character through 4 default rider modes: RAIN, STANDARD, GRAVEL and SPORT plus a customisable USER mode. It also allows even smoother operation of the Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) system, which now features 3 levels of intervention. The Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) features Automatic shifting schedules that link with the riding modes.

A new frame and detail improvements save 1kg. There’s a sharper, more aggressive edge to the X-ADV’s bodywork and the twin LED headlights are now equipped with Daytime Running Lights (DRL), as used by the CRF1100 Africa Twin.

For easier ground reach the seat is newly contoured at the shoulders. The redesigned underseat storage space grows in volume and is equipped with a USB charging point; relocating the parking brake to the right handlebar offers greater convenience and frees up space for a useful new glovebox. A new TFT instrument display offers Honda Smartphone Voice Control System.